Residents press council on animal control agreement and officer training

Several residents used the public-comment period to press Harper Woods leaders for clearer animal-control procedures and more transparent communication about the city’s agreement with iHeart Dogs Animal Haven.

Greg Barrow summarized a recent conversation with a state animal-program manager and cited the 'dog law of 1919' and a 1988 Michigan statute he identified as governing dangerous animals. He cautioned that if a resident attempting to capture a stray is bitten or injured, liability could fall on the municipality. "So in other words, it's not a good idea to allow a resident to pick this up," Barrow said, urging formal training and a clearer, safer process.

Another commenter questioned the operational arrangement for officers, saying that pulling police officers from regular duty to transport animals strains resources and that the shelter lacks a direct phone line for residents to retrieve animals. Speakers also complained about a $500 reclaim fee mentioned in the agreement, calling it unaffordable for many owners.

City leaders acknowledged the concerns and said they are working to improve the arrangement, noting the city did not initially seek the current contract and is continuing to explore ordinance and staffing options. Council asked staff to pursue training, clarify the fee structure and improve contact procedures so residents know how to reclaim animals and how to report strays.

Next steps: staff will follow up with the contracted shelter and report back to council with clarified procedures, training options for animal-control response and any recommended ordinance changes before spring.